For the past few years, I’ve been coveting my friend’s drawer dishwashers. In a very lustful way. I love that they seem like the perfect size for a family of two (or one, at least much of the time). This can be easily filled in a few days’ time, as opposed to my full-size model, which isn’t even full with all of my dishes – and takes nearly a week for me to fill. And I don’t even want to get into its runtime, which is nearly three hours long…
04
May 13
DESIGN: Wine Storage
Some people dream about vacations or adventures. I dream about wine racks. This week, I literally dreamt of one that was built into our dining-room wall, with an antique wrought-iron door that revealed a floor-to-ceiling rack, also made of wrought iron. With warm, soft lighting. It served as both storage and a focal point in the room. Yum…
27
Dec 12
IDEA: Counter Cleanup
As a low-tech solution to a common problem, this is really cool! The only problem (like the in-counter compost bin) is the cost. Sixty-nine bucks? This one attaches to a small (or central) vacuum system. I don’t want the vacuum – or the price tag for that matter. It’s a plastic tray, for crap sake!! I’ll bet I can make one of these for LOTS less. Using a plastic tray, even. Man!
17
Dec 12
IDEA: In-Counter Compost Bin
Oooooooh!! Want. BAD. One less thing on the counter, and it can’t possibly get any easier. I love everything about it – except the PRICE. It’s currently selling for (are you sitting down?) $495.00. Are you kidding me???? C’mon, folks: it’s made to hold garbage, not jewelry! Never mind – I’ll get Rick to figure out how to make one for less than $30…
20
Nov 12
THOUGHT: Small Spaces
It’s amazing what you can do with only six inches of space. This is a superb example. And a lesson to me to look for – and exploit – storage opportunities in my next house. Proof, even, that a large kitchen is not needed to make a truly functional, exquisitely organized and highly efficient work space. Inspiration!
29
Oct 12
DESIGN: Generator
We’re watching Hurricane Sandy bear down on the upper east coast. After ten years of living in the woods of New Hampshire, it’s time for a generator. I don’t need (or want) a big, honking thing that will power my entire house. My short list is one that will keep the refrigerator, heat and water pump running, along with a few kitchen outlets. Continue reading →
19
Oct 12
DESIGN: Kitchen Exhaust
I’m going to have a small galley kitchen in this new home, so the last thing I want is a massive exhaust vent that will make this space feel even smaller. I also don’t want a built-in counter vent; I’ve heard from several friends that they don’t do the trick. One last thing on my do-not-want list for a range vent: one that’s built right into the stove. I have one and it works pretty well – but the cost of this add-on for a range is ridiculous.
19
Sep 12
DESIGN: Outlets
If I’ve learned anything from those I know who’ve suffered gone through the design and building of a house, it’s that you need to carefully plan for outlets. How they’re used, where they’re used, and what’s best in terms of form and function.
30
Aug 12
THOUGHT: Guests
While we’re still playing around with the idea of a sleeping loft, I have recently fallen in deep, obsessive love with the these vintage trailers as guesthouses. Aren’t they amazing?
29
Aug 12
IDEA: Floor Cleaning
I despise sweeping and vacuuming. Honestly, it were possible to hose down my floor once a week, I’d have installed drainage by now. And since this forever house will have concrete floors (initially, at least), I need to find a way to keep the floors clean and clear of dust and pet hair with as little effort as possible. This little baby seems to be the answer.
